Winter has arrived in Connecticut. Winter not only brings cold and sometimes freezing weather, but it brings illnesses. Illnesses like the flu, Strep throat, and colds. As much as we want to forget about COVID-19, it’s still with us. The good news is that not every symptom is COVID-19

Strep Throat can be confused with COVID-19 because of some similarities in symptoms. AFC Urgent Care Norwalk is here to help you understand the difference between a sore throat caused by COVID-19 and Strep Throat.  

Strep Throat is Not A Symptom Of COVID-19

Let’s get something clear. Strep throat primarily infects the tonsils and throat causing a severe sore throat. It's also a completely different illness than COVID-19. In fact, it’s actually caused by a bacterial infection and requires antibiotics to recover. COVID-19, on the other hand, is a viral infection and often comes with respiratory symptoms.

Viral infections like the flu, COVID-19 or a cold are usually accompanied by other respiratory symptoms that include:

• Cough
• Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing
• New loss of taste or smell
• Sore throat
• Fatigue

Some people may not have any symptoms. Just because they don’t have any symptoms, doesn’t mean they cannot infect people around them. Symptoms can also vary depending on the virus’ variant. The current variant is  B.1.1.529. 

Most people who have had all of the available vaccines will experience mild symptoms, but some people, mostly those who have not been vaccinated, the elderly or those with pre-existing conditions, can become severely ill.

Symptoms Of Strep Throat Affect The Throat And Tonsils!

Strep throat is often viewed as a mild infection, but it can be very painful. The most common symptoms of strep throat include:

• Sore throat that can start very quickly.
• Pain when swallowing
• Fever
• Red and swollen tonsils, sometimes with white patches or streaks of pus
• Swollen lymph nodes in the front of the neck.

Other symptoms may include a headache, stomach pain, nausea, or vomiting — especially in children.

Symptoms typically NOT seen in Strep throat are:

• Cough
• Runny nose
• Pink eye

Is There A Test For Strep Throat?

Yes! If you come to AFC Urgent Care Norwalk, we can perform a quick throat swab in our office. If you test positive for strep, we can prescribe antibiotics to help clear up the bacteria causing the infection. We also provide Rapid antigen and PCR COVID-19 tests. We suggest COVID-19 vaccines, boosters and the annual flu shot as preventative measures to help reduce your risk of other winter illnesses this season.

AFC Urgent Care Norwalk is here for you 7 days a week for your urgent care needs. There is no appointment necessary when visiting us. But you can also schedule an appointment to clear up any confusion you may have and to be seen at a time that best fits your busy schedule!